James Gandolfini's Casting and Son's Acting Path

James Gandolfini, best known for his portrayal of Tony Soprano, was not initially seen as 'threatening enough' for the role by series creator David Chase, but was ultimately cast after strong advocacy from his managers and casting directors and a convincing audition. Gandolfini himself doubted he would get the part, expecting it to go to someone more conventionally attractive. Meanwhile, his son Michael Gandolfini was kept away from 'The Sopranos' set as a child to protect him from the show's mature content and allow him to discover acting on his own. Michael later played a young Tony Soprano in 'The Many Saints of Newark', approaching the role with fresh eyes, as he had not watched the original series during his childhood. Michael credits his parents' decision with enabling him to shape his own path in acting. Despite the family's fame, Michael grew up outside the limelight, focusing on developing his own career.